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The sun is out in full force during the summer, so it’s the best time to use solar powered items and cut down on your use of electricity! Here are some of our favourite solar powered items to try this summer.

Smart phone chargers

Our smart phones are never ‘off,’ and over time the electricity they end up using really adds up. A solar powered charger works by first charging up where there’s sunlight; and then acting as a portable charger that you take with you where ever you go. Most of them are small enough to fit in your pocket, so there’s no need to worry that it’s another bulky phone accessory.

Patio light

These lights have solar panels that capture sunlight during the day so that it can be used later on in the day after the sun has set. There are a wide variety of solar powered patio lights available, from mounted lamps to individual posts. The great thing about them is you won’t need to remember to charge them, and they’re always ready for use.

Cooking using the sun’s energy

A solar cooker sun oven doesn’t work by converting the light into electricity. Instead, it amplifies the heat that the oven receives to cook, roast, and steam your food. People have been using the sun to process their food for centuries so the idea of the solar oven isn’t new, but the newest versions are compact, light, and re-usable.

Toys, toys, toys

Amazon has a number of solar-powered toys that will move and dance whenever it comes into contact with the sun. They are great for your office or the dashboard of your car, which will see a lot of sun in the summer.

Solar powered water heater

Hot water is a necessity in the home, and keeping a tank full of hot water on demand uses up a significant amount of electricity. Sunlight can be harnessed in different ways to heat the water, leading to the passive and active solar powered water heater.

In addition to the turnkey products listed above, you can also arrange for most of your appliances to be solar powered. Solar cells and battery packs are readily available for sale, and all you need to do is connect it to the appliance. Stationary appliances work best, such as a heating system. If you’re handy, there are also kits that can be built into toys, radios, or other gadgets!

For more information on how to go green this year, be sure to check back to our Green City Plumber blog often!